OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) is an open communication standard that enables an EV charger (charge point) to securely exchange data with a charging management system (often called CPMS or back office). It is the most widely used protocol for operating, monitoring, and maintaining networked charging infrastructure across different hardware and software vendors.
What OCPP is used for
OCPP supports the core operational functions needed to run an EV charging network:
– Charger status and heartbeat monitoring (online/offline, available/charging/faulted)
– Session control (start/stop transactions, connector locking/unlocking)
– User authentication (RFID, app-based authorization, whitelists)
– Meter values and energy reporting (kWh, power, voltage, current)
– Remote diagnostics and event logs (faults, alarms, error codes)
– Configuration management (site limits, connector settings, messages)
– Smart charging control (charging profiles, power limits)
– Firmware and configuration updates (depending on implementation/version)
How OCPP works
OCPP defines standardized messages between the charger and the backend:
– The charger initiates a connection to the backend and maintains it with periodic heartbeats
– The backend can send commands (remote start/stop, reset, configuration changes)
– The charger reports measurements and events during the session and on state changes
– Transactions and metering data are stored by the backend for billing, reporting, and support
Why OCPP matters in EV charging
OCPP is central to interoperability and scalable operations:
– Avoids vendor lock-in by allowing chargers to work with different CPMS platforms
– Enables centralized monitoring to improve uptime and reduce MTTR
– Supports consistent data collection for billing, KPIs, and reporting
– Enables remote operations at scale, reducing truck rolls and service cost
– Creates a foundation for smart charging and grid-aligned operation
OCPP versions commonly referenced
OCPP is available in multiple versions, each adding features and improvements:
– OCPP 1.6: widely deployed version supporting core operations and smart charging
– OCPP 2.0.1: newer version with stronger device management, improved security concepts, and richer functional scope
Version selection affects feature availability, security options, and long-term upgrade planning.
OCPP security considerations
Because OCPP enables remote control and carries operational data, security is critical:
– Use encrypted transport (often TLS) and secure credential management
– Apply strict backend access control (RBAC, MFA) for operators and installers
– Use network segmentation to isolate charger connectivity from corporate networks
– Maintain logs, monitoring, and incident processes for abnormal behavior
– Manage firmware updates securely to reduce vulnerabilities
Common implementation challenges
– Misconfigured network connectivity (NAT, firewalls, SIM/LTE coverage) causing frequent offline chargers
– Inconsistent meter reporting leading to billing or reporting mismatches
– Feature differences across vendors even when “OCPP compliant” is claimed
– Time synchronization issues affecting session timestamps and reconciliation
– Security shortcuts during commissioning (temporary credentials left in place)
Related glossary terms
CPMS
OCPP 1.6 / 2.0.1
Smart charging
Load management
Firmware updates
Monitoring access
Uptime
Mean Time To Repair (MTTR)
OCPI
Network segmentation